ACNE 101 CLINIC AT EUDELO WITH DR STEFANIE WILLIAMS & HYDRAFACIAL MD REVIEW

 

 

I was lucky enough to attend the most amazing Acne 101 event at The Eudelo Clinic hosted by leading Dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams and Em from mypaleskinblog. The event was all about Acne, and Dr Stephanie provided some absolutely incredible treatments, as well as a talk on Acne, and consultations for bloggers. I was lucky enough to sample the Hydrafacial, recieve a bespoke skincare consultation (with a menu for tailored skincare recommendations and gorgeous goody bag of my tailored products to try) The clinic is incredible and I felt so well looked after.

 

Dr Stefanie's expertise is so thorough and I would recommend a consult with Dr Stepfanie and her team of lovely Medical Aestheticians to everyone wishing to improve their skin. I even learnt that I had a tendency towards rosacea, and should therefore use skin calming and non-aggressive ingredients. The Hydrafacial was the best facial I have ever, ever received!  I was told I was glowing after from my friends, and my skin felt so soft. Hydrafacial utilises the best aesthetic techniques, and uses advanced methods of cleansing and exfoliating and extraction of congested skin areas using salicylic acid, as well as an amazing delivery of hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and peptides to hydrate and plump the skin. This would be the ideal all encompassing facial to have on a regular basis.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY: WHAT IS ACNE?

 

Acne is a complex condition, with multiple etiologies and perpetuating and worsening factors ranging from genetics, diet, rising androgen  levels and other hormonal imbalances as seen in PCOS, overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria and cosmetic use. In normal skin, sebaceous glands lie under the skin which produce sebum, an oil which protects the skin from moisture loss. As we enter teenage years, sebum levels may be increased, and in some situations, this can lead to pores becoming blocked which can combine with dead skin cells on the surface layer of the skin. This can also encourage the growth of Propionibacterium acnes. While it is normal to have a certain amount of this bacteria present in the skin, an overgrowth in clogged pores can cause infection which stimulates  the immune system into an inflammatory response causing some of the hallmarks of an inflammatory response- red, painful and swollen and production of fluid in the affected areas.

 

Dr Stefanie explained how because there can be multiple causes, many people suffer from acne alone, long term and it can negatively affect self esteem and even day to day happiness and quality of life often causing depression, anxiety and even agoraphobia. This really saddened me that many people are affected by acne in this way and I think this is why one of the reasons why it is so important to seek professional treatment- as there are some very effective treatments now available.

 

HOW CAN ACNE BE TREATED?

 

Effective treatment of acne is thorough and holistic. Common approaches include antibiotic use, retinoid application, medical grade facials and structured cosmeceutical use of hydroxyacids  and oil free moisturisers and other methods which an experienced Dermatologist can advise on.  I learnt about the importance of  a Treatment and Maintenance cycle or plan, which is important to follow even if the symptoms improve. Perpetuating factors such as Nutrition are so interesting to me  as a  training Clinical Nutritionist, and studies have also found there is a potential for dietary interventions such as a low GI diet and dairy free diet which may help improve acne symptoms due to the interplay between Insulin and acne. I know at least anecdotally that these two factors have helped me achieve clear skin with very rare break outs.

 

I absolutely loved this event and learnt so much. Thank you so much Dr Stefanie and your lovely team.

 

 

 

http://www.eudelo.com/

 

L.M

xxx

 

 

LEADING COSMECEUTICAL NEOSTRATA RETINOL + NAG COMPLEX & DAILY PEEL REVIEW: THE SCIENCE BEHIND AHAS AND RETINOL

Hello lovely readers!

 I was so incredibly happy when the gorgeous Molly from Emmabwpr gave me some incredible Neostrata products to try, and after over a month of using them- I can say I am addicted. Neostrata are a leading cosmeceutical brand recommended by leading dermatologists and Aesthetic doctors. Cosmeceuticals are skincare products which are supported by clinical trials and in vitro and in vivo scientific testing and work on areas of skin concern such as ageing, acne, or hyperpigmentation.

 I trialed the Neostrata NAG+ Retinol complex and the Neostrata 10 AHA daily resurfacing pads. Firstly, the daily resurfacing AHA peels are incredible. After applying the fluid to the pads, you apply the pads to the face and exfoliate. After a few days my skin tightened and then there was a light peel. At this stage I applied anti-oxidant rich serums to assist the skin turnover. After a few days my skin was so silky and smooth. The really interesting quality I noticed is I felt like break out areas which would usually take a while to settle down, were gone within a day or two. Although I don't have extensive acne I know this system is recommended to those who are prone to acne or with excess sebum production. As I have normal oil production I use these in key areas and T zones weekly to bi-monthly depending on my hormones/stress levels and other personal acne triggers.

Also, after a month, my hyper pigmentation was massively reduced. I've noticed I am wearing significantly less foundation, and no concealer at all, as I feel my skin is more even and my skin looks brighter and more vibrant (which is so nice as my skin doesn't look as good in the Autumn/Winter months) 

    The Retinol serum has a luxurious texture, and I noticed over time areas of fine lines around the eye and forehead (the key ageing areas to target in the twenties and thirties) were definitely improved. In Aesthetic medicine, Retinol is one of the most well documented  ingredients for anti-ageing and reducing fine lines. (NB its best to avoid using AHAs and retinol together at the same time as this can cause sensitivity reactions, and both need daily high SPF use)

The amazing part of this Retinol serum is due the fact it is suitable for those with sensitive skin; which is a true innovation as retinol can sometimes be too harsh for some skin types If you want to transform your skin and start a highly effective anti-ageing routine that noticeably works; these products are for you. 

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BEAUTY: 

NEOSTRATA RESURFACE: SMOOTH SURFACE DAILY PEEL

There's a reason why the Neostrata range is award winning and is the perfect at home peel, as there is no downtime and are so highly effective at resurfacing the skin and working on multiple skin complaints simultaneously. AHAS or Alpha-hydroxy-acids such as Glycolic acid are naturally derived acids, usually from the fermentation of sugar cane or certain fruits and they have some transformative effects on the skin. AHAS work by dissolving cohesion  between old keratinised skin cells, thus assisting cell turnover; and are a must have addition to anyone who wants to gently resurface their skin.

This AHA system improves the appearance of hyper-pigmentation from sun damage or acne scarring,  fine lines and uneven skin texture. I have a few areas of hyper-pigmentation; I have very pale skin which makes hyper pigmentation more noticeable and noticed the daily peels completely resurfaced and evened out my complexion. 

The most  amazing quality of this formulation is the addition of their patented Aminofil; this increases both hyaluronic acid and collagen production which helps to restore the intrinsic skin matrix and structural support of the skin. I love how Neostrata have formulated a peel that not only refines and resurfaces, but also restores. An amazing example of a beautifully devised and formulated cosmeceutical. 

NEOSTRATA SKIN ACTIVE RETINOL + NAG COMPLEX

Retinol in my opinion is one of the best ingredients to incorporate into your anti-ageing routine.

The NAG + Retinol Serum has some very impressive in vitro clinical trials and in vivo evidence supporting the synergistic benefits of this formulation. Researchers put keratinocytes (skin cells) for 24 hours in three conditions; in Retinol, in NAG and in NAG and Retinol. Hyaluronic acid was significantly increased in the third condition; showing a Retinol and NAG complex to be instrumental in boosting hyaluronic acid production in as little as just 24 hours.

As hyaluronic acid production decreases every year due to ageing and contributes to retaining moisture and structure of the skin this is the perfect anti ageing addition to keep skin plump and full of volume as well as maintaining hydration. The 2.5% Retinol encapsulate delivers 0.5% Retinol and because of this, it is highly tolerable and reduces blemishes and hyper-pigmentation. The  amazing NAG complex containing Glucosamine has been shown in clinical trials to boost hyaluronic acid production, increase hydration, accelerate healing and reduce hyperpigmentation via inhibition of melanin. These combined ingredients establishes the Neostrata Retinol + NAG complex as a powerful anti-ageing system. The formulation is also paraben, fragrance and oil free. 

Absolutely outstanding cosmeceutical formulations from Neostrata and I am so thankful to have tried these!

Have you tried any Neostrata products? I  would love to know your thoughts

LM xxx

EXPERT INTERVIEW No. 2 RENOWNED NUTRITIONIST DR VIDHI PATEL

I was lucky enough to first interview the lovely Dr Vidhi Patel last year for The Aesthetics Journal on Holistic approaches to skin treatments and we instantly got on so well and had so much to talk about! I couldn't wait to interview Vidhi again so I went to her Mayfair based clinic at Minerva Labs to talk about Vidhi's incredible approaches and every day recommendations for those wishing to improve their  health.

Vidhi has an extensive career in Nutrition and well being after completing her Homeopathic medical degree in India, and has featured in Vogue Italia, as well as working as a consultant for Minerva Labs (Gold Collagen supplement HQ) and Organic Pharmacy. Vidhi's energy is so positive, and incredibly motivating- if anyone can get a chance to consult Vidhi as their Nutritionist- I couldn't recommend a better person. 

LM: I would love to know more about your Nutrition practice

VP: I see people when they have any health concerns at all; Just imagine, someone going to their GP, and they may have vague symptoms, aches and pain which might not have manifested as a disease yet; they may get bloated or acne, or irregular cycles. There are so many symptoms that we now just get used to living with. You just run with the time- so what happens is we ignore these small signs- and these are called signs of toxicity. It means if the body is going through a crisis, it will try to speak for itself. These are symptoms that you might not necessarily see your GP about, until it becomes too big a problem.

I help people through looking at these symptoms and find out, through the technology here, if their condition is going to be something to worry about. If I find something more that a symptom of toxicity or a lifestyle/ stress induced change, I will try to treat it, and if I find it is beyond the reach of the holistic approach it needs to be addressed through a GP, e.g hypothyroidism symptoms need investigating through blood tests. Not everyone is going to undergo my treatment from day 1, sometimes I say people don't need this- everyone just needs to know their body. 

DR VIDHI's EXPERT ADVICE AND INSIGHTS:

SUPPLEMENTS. EVERYDAY HEALTH, STRESS AND BEAUTY RITUALS

VP: What we tend to do is take a multivitamin, and think psychologically, for those ten vitamins that are in the supplement, we are sorted. That is not quite the case, I always promote practical healthy living and not something that is too fancy or too expensive to follow- you have to find what exactly your body needs and just give that. Always rest, and practice simple lifestyle modifications like having a glass of lemon water in the morning first thing to make the body alkaline. Having a cup of coffee on an empty stomach first thing in the morning and running on stimulants is not the best- you will biologically accelerate your metabolism and ageing to make a 40 year old's body equivalent to that of a 60 year old individual. This is your body running on the adrenals, and some people may complain of adrenal fatigue and also chronic fatigue syndrome. They will crash lower than their start point of energy levels after the effect of  caffeine is over. Caffeine is not bad if its controlled- but have coffee as you like, not as you need. 

SKINCARE

My skincare routine always begins with carrot butter, I massage my face with this and while it is still on, I use a hot muslin cloth, and then I will pat my face. This is a deep cleanse, like oil pulling without drying the face. This can be done even with people who have oily skin. The most important part of the process is a hot towel, or muslin, to work to clean the skin, and it will not cause clogged pores. Then follow by a splash of cold water. For a toner, I use herbal toner from The Organic Pharmacy which is a blend of herbs and a base of aloe vera.

I try to use a serum which is activated with Vitamin C or fruit acids, Frankincense and diluted lavender used at nighttime which is a time for repair and I never use products with parabens. Organic walnut oil and almond oil I also use. Sometimes I mix a little fresh lemon juice with manuka honey (or agave for vegans) and that is my serum. Make fresh to avoid oxidation, the citrus acids and the sugar combination both soften the skin.

ADVICE FOR TWENTY SOMETHINGS, WHO ARE BUSY, ACTIVE AND LIVING IN THE CITY

V.P: The first thing I would recommend is have a big outlook on drinking water; its very easy to forget. If your body shows any signs of dryness such as dry lips, dry eyes, dry palms- you have already lost the battle and dehydrated yourself; so you have to drink water, even when you are not  thirsty. Its important to sip water, just as a habit, a habit to cultivate. In the morning, avoid coffee or cigarettes-any stimulants on an empty stomach. Your body has already produced a lot of acid, and if you pour in some stimulant which is also acidic like coffee or tea are, they will increase the acidic medium of the body which is not good and may end up giving you lifestyle disorders in the future. Instead; have a smoothie, juice or water

The third most important thing is find time to exercise, if you are dedicated to thirty minutes a day- and shopping doesn't involve exercise because you end up having a muffin on the way home because you're so tired- You have to find time to move the body, on a cross trainer, or bike or walking your dog if you have one. Taking long walks in parks and scheduling this into your daily routine is very beneficial. Its all about what suits us and doing it every day. 

You feel activated, and charged up- like charging your laptop. I always give the analogy of I phone batteries- their batteries go flat so you have to charge them every day- we are the same; like high maintenance iphones that need to be recharged daily. We don't even have time to replenish the needs of our body, and it is an absolute must to recharge daily. You can do this very first thing in the morning or at the end of the day if you struggle to fit it into your routine.

The next ritual is to look at what you are putting in your body, how and when. Avoid eating when you are really hungry or waiting until you are really hungry to eat. People stay hungry for too long, and they will put anything in the body and easy comfort food comes into the body far too easily. Always know your body, and plan your meals, so even if it is a takeaway, or a meal from home- it needs thought. Don't restrict yourself with strict lunch breaks and schedules- listen to the body and eat the right food at the right time, because everyone has a different right time. 

EVERY DAY NUTRITION STAPLES 

          In terms of foods and meals; what you will always find in my fridge is tofu, lemon, ginger and some sort of greens. This is so I can always easily make a meal such as grilled tofu, or a tofu stir fry. Chickpeas are also a favourite, and I will have these once or twice a week as well as kidney beans and a lot of vegetables such as soups. I make homemade Indian bread with no yeast or wheat preservatives-easy and filling. Wheat products are too polished- all the good qualities have been taken out, I always find the combination of the three white foods; salt, sugar and white flour are hazardous I would recommend to never have all of these three together. Simple every day swaps like these and you don't need to go on a rigorous detox.

ADVICE FOR ACNE SYMPTOMS

VP: For hormonal acne, there are a lot of permutations and combinations in the body; for example,  is it high oestrogen, low progesterone or a combination, or is it around the time of the menopause, pregnancy or post pregnancy- all of this has to be assessed.

 (I asked Dr Vidhi about a friend who is peri-menopausal has hormonal acne around the lower half of the face) VP: For your friend, she may benefit from herbs such as Saw palmetto (10 drops in half a glass of water at the end of the day) and Agnus Castus (10 drops in half a glass of water at the beginning of the day) With herbs I recommend liquids, because they are more effective, easy to take, and bioavailable in terms of absorption and there are less binding agents. 

With hormones, I can definitely suggest some good herbs and before you start any herbal routine you should consult a Herbalist or a Nutritionist who knows how to deal with hormones- a specialist in this area and managing hormones- it is a huge responsibility. It is a process and at the end of each month, you can work out if your treatment is working or not. 

  

I really hope you've enjoyed this post, You can find more about Vidhi on her website and also information on Gold collagen here. I was also lucky enough to review The Gold collagen Hydrogel acid masks review to follow!

LM xxx

Vegan Omega 3, 6 & 9 for beautiful skin

Hello lovely readers! Welcome to the sort-of relaunch of my blog. I actually had a little break from blogging and disappeared off the blogosphere for a little bit. I think there comes a point where you  feel a little bit creatively blocked and want a complete refresh :)  (please comment if you have had the same experience- would love to hear your story) 

As well as focusing on some amazing career opportunities, I wanted to change the concept of the blog a little. I am studying my Msc in Clinical Nutrition before I go on to study Post graduate medicine, so want to add more nutrition content as I know changing diet can be transformative for many skin problems. I also have been fortunate enough to connect with many experts, and want to bring in some expert interview. I've also added a recommended panel, as I have had lots of messages asking for my recommendations, but of course, feel free to email me if  there is any skincare question you have :) Thank you so much for reading, here's the first post on vegan  omega oils and their fantastic skin benefits.

I am always asked about the role of omegas in skin  health, and also how to source them through the vegan diet. I think a lot of people think the only source of omega 3 is fish oil, but actually there are some amazing plant based oils available. If you increase your healthy fat intake, such as avocado, flax seed oil and certain nuts and seeds, you're likely to have a healthy omega supply but they may not be balanced; its important to take omega 3, 6 and 9 in certain ratios which is why supplements are a great way to ensure this.

THE  SCIENCE  BEHIND THE BEAUTY?

HIGHLY ANTI-INFLAMMATORY 

Omega 3, 6, and 9 are potent anti-inflammatory molecules. Minimising inflammation and the allergic response in the body could benefit certain skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Inflammation is simply the body's immune system reacting to something; but chronic inflammation can be deleterious to health as well as skin health.  Omega 3 and 6 inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines which is therapeutic in conditions such as acne. 

SKIN RESTORATIVE BENEFITS

Our cell membranes are made out of lipids and disruptions in lipid homeostasis and maintenance can give rise to many skin conditions. As well as topical application benefits, fatty acids in the diet has been shown by The American Journal of Nutrition to help minimise inflammation of skin lipids. Flax seed oil has been shown to decrease skin reactivity, and supplementation with flax seed oil topically is incredibly effective for conditions such as psoriasis and I often break a capsule of omega oil on areas of dry skin that need extra TLC.

1. Neal's Yard Omega 3.6.9 Organic Oil Blend 200ml 2. Viridian Vegan EPA & DHA Oil 30ml 3. Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Beauty Oil 200ml 4. 100% Organic Ultimate Beauty Oil NEW 500ml 5. Vertese 500mg Omega Oils 3.6.9 60 Vegetable Capsules

Disclaimer: this uses affiliate links to amazon, from which I earn a commission but are based on what I fully recommend :) 

Raw Gaia Organic Floral Rejuvenating cream

 I've been sampling the Raw Gaia Organic Floral Rejuvenating cream for nearly a month now and I adore it- its safe to say its my new go to beauty balm. It's extremely versatile; I love dewy skin, and this cream totally achieves it under makeup without my foundation sliding off. It also makes a perfect nourishing mask slathered on at night thickly. The addition of cold pressed Cocoa butter and Rose geranium means it also smells gorgeous, sort of like Turkish delight, (and I am all for edible smelling beauty products). The cream has a lovely balmy texture that melts into a smooth luminescent finish without being oily. This cream is divine and an absolute must have for any beauty balm fans or anyone wanting to liven up dull dry skin. 

The Science behind the Beauty?

There are some really beautiful ingredients in this floral cream; cold pressed Cocoa butter, Rosehip oil, Rose geranium, Palmarosa, Lavender and Evening Primrose oils are perfect balancing and anti ageing botanicals. These ingredients are also all that is in this cream as Raw Gaia has a lovely 100% organic ethos. Studies have shown high antioxidant and anti-microbial effects of Rosehip oil, as well as the wonder ingredient Evening Primrose oil  which has been shown to be extremely anti ageing across multiple parameters of skin ageing and general condition such as trans-epidermal water loss, elasticity, fatigue resistance, firmness and roughness. This is thought to be due to the body's inability to produce GLA, an essential fatty acid and its need for it to be preformed, which is present in  abundance in Evening Primrose oil. The addition of Lavender and Palmarosa have been shown to be anti microbial across the board of microorganisms even with minimal concentrations, adding to the balancing nature of the cream. A gorgeous mix of organic skin nutrients. 

5/5 test tubes- My new go-to beauty balm. A fantastic, versatile and glow boosting product.

Have you tried any Raw Gaia products? 

Jason Natural sun care review

I was thrilled to receive these Jason suncare products as I'd been very curious about mineral sun care and its effectiveness. This cream does not disappoint, it offers fantastic protection, and 80 minutes of waterproof wear ( before you have to reapply ), which is great for me as I love swimming in the sea! ( apart from the time I stood on a weaver fish) My skin is also particularly sensitive in the sun so its fabulous to know I am going as natural as can be with my sun care. 

 Due to the mineral nature, it takes a little longer to soak in, and is a thick, but otherwise fantastic and worth the extra soaking in time. For the after sun, Aloe vera in my opinion is the best ingredient you could be putting on your skin, and the high aloe vera content is instantly soothing.

The Science behind the Beauty?

The active minerals in the mineral sun cream such as Zinc oxide and  Titanium dioxide form the basis of the SPF. Although this sounds artificial, titanium dioxide is an oxide of a natural mineral and research has shown that it won't penetrate deep into the skin and will remain on the surface- which is exactly their intended purpose to refract light without being absorbed. There are no petrolatums, parabens, SLS, artificial colours or phthalates, so ideal for sensitive or temperamental skin prone to breakouts.  There is also a greater degree of photostability, which means the active mineral ingredients  degrade less on the skin and remain active. Jason mineral suncream also has natural botanical oils which moisturise as you wear which is great news for me as sun cream usually equals dry itchy skin. 

The great moisturising basis of the cream is due to the trio of fantastic natural moisturisers;  jojoba, shea and grapeseed. It also has the addition of chamomile and calendula, which has been shown to be protective against UVB associated oxidative stress.  The aloe vera gel has the addition of aloe vera leaf juice is a powerful natural ingredient, and  has been shown in clinical trials to be extremely effective for  treatment of radiation burns, as well as anti microbial in studies  and very useful for the treatment of psoriasis.

Moisturising, natural suncream set in some lovely natural moisturisers with calming botanical extracts. This is perfect for sensitive skin prone to itching after the sun.

 I thought I would leave you with this pic from my hometown Brighton to show you a bit of my summer!

Have you tried mineral sun cream and what were your thoughts? 

Sophia's Choice- Organic health and beauty boutique & Live native review

I discovered Sophia's choice online health and beauty boutique and instantly adored the range of all things organic and natural. 
All products are personally hand picked by the lovely owner, Charlie, and their ethos is fantastic; its all about nourishing ingredients and working with brands passionate about making organic products. They would never stock a product that they hadn't tried and believed to be highly effective. Each product also has an in depth, informative ingredient breakdown denoting all the ingredients, their uses and suitability. The site is fantastic to navigate from nutritional supplements to soy-wax candles and home ware.  Its a perfect way of discovering artisan brands such as Live Native,  (scroll down for review) as well as purchasing fantastic health supplements and smoothie accessories ( eg chia, wheatgrass, hemp) If I ran an online health and beauty boutique- I would want it to be exactly like Sophia's choice. 

1. Peppy Galore  fruit punch body mousse
2. Live native exfoliating cleanser with chamomile
3. Naturya Chia seeds
4. Live native essential moisturiser
5. Bodhi & Birch Cacao cacoon 
6. The Earth works Lavender and sweet orange body melt
7. Organic burst- wheatgrass powder 

I was also very kindly sent some amazing Live native scrub to try from Sophia's choice, Live Native is all about raw, organic, live botanicals, and eliminating synthetics to nourish the skin; the benefits include supplying your skin with an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, fatty acids and enzymes. I adore this idea of " skin food" and this Live Native exfoliator is definitely providing your skin with fantastic nourishment and protection- all 100% organic and naturally derived. I sampled the Essential Earth exfoliating cleanser and I have never used anything like it.

The texture is earthy and smells like dates and oats. You mix with a little water to mix into a paste, and use a warm muslin cloth or cotton flannel to open pores, to ensure maximum penetration of the active ingredients. This left my skin beautifully soft, and I was amazed how without any soap my skin could be left so clean. My neighbour and a lady at a cafe this week said that my skin was glowing- so I think this scrub can take some credit for this! it is also, unlike some scrubs, gentle enough to use every day (I sometimes used this twice a day!) which is fantastic for me as I like a really smooth exfoliated surface before I put makeup on. I also am really a fan of this idea of using replenishing scrubs- scrubs that exfoliate but put something back on your skin simultaneously. 

The Science behind the beauty?

The ingredients in this scrub makes it a nutrient powerhouse; and offers an interesting remineralising quality. The exfoliating cleanser utilises the unique mineral composition in Absorptive Moroccan Rhassoul Clay to remove oil deep within the pores, and there is certainly some valid scientific research on the effectiveness of clay in acne and cellulite treatment. MSM, an ingredient that I have seen a lot recently, has been shown to be effective in allergies and rosacea  and many cite it as an incredible anti-inflammatory ingredient, due to it's rich concentration of sulphur.  The addition of Argan, a multi beneficial hydrator, Calendula and Coconut oils have been shown to benefit skin from a plethora of clinical parameters such as decreased erythema (redness), antibacterial benefits, and decreased sebum production. There is a lot to love about this scrub, and if you love your cosmetics as natural as can be, this is the one for you. 

5/5 Test tubes- An amazing, original scrub. The ingredients are fantastic, and I really feel like I am giving my skin benefits with every use

I hope you've enjoyed this post! What are your natural favourites? 

My Study Essentials

I thought I would reflect on my studying essentials, and offer my study tips to those still taking exams or currently studying.

For me its completely about making it a good experience;

eating amazing food and keeping your energy and spirits up and not letting yourself burn out! Here are some of my favourite study and beauty items. 

   1.  Fresh flowers on your desk

This sounds extravagant, but if you take some clippings from your garden it should do the job! I personally find this very uplifting and I also try to position my desk near a window with lots of natural light if I'm studying at home.

2. Your favourite beauty samples

These are perfect for late night library sessions where you need a little refresh. I am the cheeky person that always asks for samples when I buy something and keep them in my wallet for impromptu moisturising ( but don't look so good when I accidentally try and pay for things with moisturiser samples). 

3. A hard-working skin serum 

I am adoring my Unique Natural Organic serums at the moment- I used them religiously during my last leg of exams and they prevented any last minute-meltdowns/stress related break outs. 

4.  A go-to Power smoothie 

This amazing Vegan chocolate, almond and banana protein shake is the ultimate breakfast. I used to be so reliant on junk food for studying, it is a cliche but healthy, sustained sugar is so much better for my concentration than what I used to eat.  Recipe to follow! 

5. Scented Candles  

 Lighting a scented candle on your desk is such a lovely thing to do for yourself, just beware of any scented candle and text book related accidents. That would definitely not be the height of relaxation. There are so many vegan candles on the market too. 

6.  A refreshing facial spritz 

The Avène refreshing facial mist is such a versatile little product when you're feeling a bit drab; this is the perfect pick me up and rescue any study related hot and bothered moment.

7.   An essential oil roll on/hand cream/body lotion 

I adore this gorgeous Neal's yard Remedies to roll; This is the relaxation blend but Neal's Yard Remedies sell other organic essential oil formulations such as " study " and " travel". I love this because it smells divine and does actually relax me. I have had friends go out and buy it they have been so impressed! 

Do you have any study tips?